§ Order for Second Reading read.
§ Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Order be discharged, and the Bill withdrawn."—(Mr. Jackson.)
§ MR. BRYCE (Aberdeen, S.)I much regret that the Government propose to withdraw this Bill. It is a Bill of considerable value, though we do not regard it as completely satisfactory, and it certainly would require some little time for discussion, perhaps three or four hours. But after that I think there would be every disposition to further the progress of the Bill. The desire which I know the Secretary of State has to further this matter is fully reciprocated in this House, and I believe also the present Viceroy is anxious to have the opportunity of introducing those reforms which this Bill would enable him to introduce. Under the circumstances, it is impossible, I suppose, to ask the Government to re-consider their determination; but what we can ask is that they will give the Bill a better chance next year by introducing it at the beginning of the Session, and giving us a reasonable time to discuss it. If that is done, I believe there is a general disposition on this side of the House to assist in passing this measure of reform.
§ Question put, and agreed to.
§ Order for Second Reading discharged.
§ Bill withdrawn.